Jun 21

Jun 21 FILM REVIEW: “THE NORTH” portrays a realistic journey of hiking and friendship

Two old friends, now well into adulthood, set out on a hiking journey that turns out to be much more than just a physical challenge. As they explore the scenic beauty of nature, they also reconnect with parts of themselves they’ve lost along the way.

At some point, most of us have dreamt of escaping the routines and responsibilities of life to embark on an adventure of a lifetime, immerse ourselves in nature, and discover new perspectives on who we are. The North has done a great job of depicting that kind of journey, offering an authentic and grounded portrayal of friendship, self-discovery, and the serene beauty of life away from the cities.

Directed and written by Bart Schrijver, The North stands out for its effective use of metaphors, using the characters’ hiking journey to mirror the challenges and growth of a friendship. The film feels like a warm hug, a gentle reminder that while friends may drift apart as life becomes busier and more complicated, meaningful connections can endure as long as we’re willing to understand, support, and be there for one another.

Produced with a crew of just six people, the film’s cinematography showcases the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, where Chris and Lluis embark on their 600-kilometer hike. Through a combination of intimate close-up shots and expansive wide angles, the audience experiences both the emotional and physical scale of the journey. The film’s creative decision to exclude background music complements this visual approach, allowing the sounds of nature, from wind and rain to footsteps on rough paths, to immerse viewers in the hike without distraction.

Even though the storyline is relatively simple and lacks major plot twists, the film’s charm lies in its sincerity. Rather than focusing on dramatic conflicts, The North presents the friends’ challenges with remarkable realism through quiet conversations, moments of miscommunication, and the characters’ willingness to show up for each other despite their differences.

One particular memorable aspect of the film is how Chris and Lluis spend parts of their trek walking separate paths at different paces. This subtle detail serves as a powerful metaphor for friendship itself, implying that even the closest friends sometimes need space and time to reflect, grow independently, and foster deeper appreciation for each other. By the time they cross paths again, the bond between them is stronger and more meaningful than ever.

Overall, The North is a heartfelt and refreshing film that celebrates friendship, personal growth, and the healing power of nature. It is definitely worth checking out if you have a passion for exploring nature, or if you simply enjoy watching a comforting piece of cinema.